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A struggling wildlife sanctuary in New Zealand has revealed it was compelled to euthanise two of its older lions, with the destiny of the other five lions still undecided, following economic struggles.

The privately owned wildlife reserve in the northern city of Whangārei ceased operations over the weekend.

In a social media post, the establishment explained that its owner had put the property up for sale in August, and the group of seven lions, aged between 18 and 21 years old, would be put down “after a difficult decision made by the property owner.”

“There were no real options left. The employees and I are heartbroken,” commented the sanctuary’s operator.

“Even though it may possibly continue as a big cat facility under fresh proprietors, such a future would require not only the purchase of the property but considerable monetary input,” the operator added.

In a recent statement, the park announced that two of its lions had been euthanised.

“We had to part with two of our lions, both of whom had serious health conditions that were not treatable and were worsening. These decisions were made with profound consideration and thoughtfulness,” the manager stated.

However, there was a “flicker of optimism” for the other five lions, which the facility had previously indicated would be put down.

“A several interested parties have indicated willingness in acquiring the property and maintaining care for the lions. While the timeframe is limited and the circumstances remain unresolved, we are doing everything we can to pursue this possibility and maintain optimism.”

Relocating the lions to a different location was not a “feasible or compassionate choice” due to their age, the quantity of animals involved, and their demanding care.

The sanctuary’s updates were flooded with messages from members of the public, pleading for a stay of execution for the surviving lions, while ex-employees expressed optimism that the sanctuary would rethink the decision to end their lives.

The operator stated that alongside the supportive comments and messages of sorrow, she had also been subjected to threatening and abusive messages.

“This is extremely upsetting,” she said. “We understand that feelings are intense, but we appeal for consideration and decency as we manage this devastating circumstance.”

The proprietor declined to comment.

The ministry for primary industries clarified that the decision to euthanise the cats was the responsibility of the proprietors, and that it had been informed of the course of action.

A deputy director stated that humane killing had to be performed humanely, and in line with animal protection legislation.

“An regulatory officer will be present to ensure this is done correctly,” the official noted. “We are assured that the facility continues to fulfill its animal welfare and security responsibilities.”

The park achieved minor fame in the early 2000s when it appeared on a broadcast series about a celebrity big cat handler.

However, it rapidly encountered difficulties. In 2009, a staff member was mauled to death by a white tiger while cleaning its enclosure.

The facility frequently experienced monetary difficulties and staffing problems, and switched proprietors on several occasions. In 2014, the ministry of primary industries directed the facility to shut down until the facilities were upgraded. It resumed operations in 2021 but went into liquidation in 2023.